HOUSE SYSTEM
Southland Boys’ High School is proud to have five vibrant Houses:
Coldstream | Deaker | Grant | Pearce | Uttley
Our Houses create a welcoming sense of community, belonging, and school spirit. Many families share connections across generations, adding to the tradition. Students enjoy fun competitions like Sports Day, Chants, Haka, and Lip Sync, while supportive staff and student leaders help everyone feel involved. Students are typically assigned to a House at random when they enrol, those with a direct family connection (such as a brother, father or grandfather) can influence placement.
DEAKER
Named after Arthur Deaker, who taught maths and history for over 40 years, Deaker House celebrates dedication to learning, the arts, and sport. Deaker coached athletics and tennis and championed arts and culture as important parts of education. The kōauau (flute) in the emblem represents this commitment to creativity, expression, and cultural appreciation, encouraging students to explore their talents across many fields.
GRANT
Don Grant, Rector from 1950–1963 and World War II veteran, inspires the values of courage, leadership, and resilience in Grant House. Grant saved 260 men during the war, even carrying one to safety on his shoulders. The House emblem, featuring a mere (traditional weapon), reflects both his military service and the way students carry the school’s values forward with bravery and integrity.
COLDSTREAM
Coldstream House is named after the stream that once flowed through the Southland Boys’ High School grounds before the main school was built. Its emblem, the tuna (eel), represents the oral tradition of passing knowledge from senior students to younger ones. It also symbolizes the journey of each student as they navigate their educational path. Coldstream fosters a sense of continuity, respect for tradition, and pride in school heritage.
UTTLEY
George Uttley, Rector from 1930–1945, is remembered for his strong work ethic and perseverance. Uttley House encourages students to embrace strength, determination, and courage, particularly in times of challenge. The toki (adze) in the emblem represents these qualities, reminding students that effort, resilience, and perseverance are key to achieving success.
PEARCE HOUSE
Named after Thomas Pearce, the longest-serving Rector (1904–1929), Pearce House embodies compassion, care, and community. Pearce knew the background of every student and offered support during times of hardship. The hand in the emblem symbolizes guidance, generosity, and the spirit of helping others, encouraging students to support one another in and out of the classroom.
